Machined steel cages are used for large bearings or in applications where there is a danger that season cracking, caused by a chemical reaction, may occur if a brass cage is used. Steel cages can be used at operating temperatures up to 300 °C (570 °F). They are not affected by the mineral or synthetic oil-based lubricants normally used for rolling bearings, or by the organic solvents used to clean bearings.

Machined brass cages

Most brass cages are machined from a CW612N cast or wrought brass in accordance with EN 1652:1998. They are unaffected by most common bearing lubricants, including synthetic oils and greases, and can be cleaned using normal organic solvents. Brass cages can be used at operating temperatures up to 250 °C (480 °F).